Jordan Thomas always turned heads in Starkville because of his potential and that’s the same reason why the former Mississippi State tight end is getting a shot in the NFL.

The Houston Texans picked Thomas with the 37th pick of the sixth round in the NFL Draft on Saturday. Thomas was the second former Mississippi State to be selected in this year’s draft. The Texans also picked offensive lineman Martinas Rankin Friday night in the third round.

Former Mississippi State coach Dan Mullen often said that in hindsight Jordan Thomas, a former No. 1 tight end prospect on the JUCO level, should’ve redshirted his first year in Starkville. That didn’t happen, of course, and Thomas played in 12 games as a junior. He had nine catches for 48 yards and a touchdown in 2016.

Analysts and scouts question his route-running ability, but at 6-foot-5 and 280 pounds, Thomas has a rare combination speed, size and athleticism, and that’s why he was picked despite a lack of production at the college level.

Thomas was moved to outside receiver last season and made 22 catches for 263 yards and three touchdowns, but profiles as a tight end at the next level. He also saw action at offensive tackle and defensive end at the JUCO level while playing for East Central after graduating from Sumrall.